DERBY, U.K. - eTradeWire -- One of Derby city centre's most iconic buildings, the former Central Co-op department store on the junction of East Street and Exchange Street, has been sold for the first time in the building's history.

RCCG Solid Rock Church has bought the freehold to the property following the closure of the Lee Longlands furniture store earlier this year.

Solid Rock is a Pentecostal Church currently located on Woods Lane, close to the centre of Derby, and with a rapidly growing congregation in the city, the Church seized the opportunity to acquire the property once it became available.

Andrew Buckley, Head of Property for Central Co-op, said:

"We are delighted to have found the right organisation to occupy and revitalise this wonderful building so soon following Lee Longlands recent decision to exit this location. Their occupancy will not only breathe new life into the space but will also contribute towards the activity and vibrancy within this part of the city centre.

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Pastor James Egodibie from Solid Rock Church, added:

"The purchase of this very large, centrally located building in the heart of Derby city centre will allow our organisation to expand our activities centred around building relationships with people of different backgrounds and cultures."

The sale was brokered by Russell Rigby from leading regional commercial property specialists Rigby & Co, who acted on behalf of the Central Co-op.

Russell added:

"This is a very significant building in a key position on the link between the successful Derbion Mall, and the Victorian Market Hall, which is set to reopen later this month.

"Sadly, the building had little future as a retail/commercial unit going forward, but James and his dynamic team will hopefully provide much needed impetus into re-energising this part of the city centre."